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In the world of sports, where rivalries and competition often take center stage and make headlines, it’s refreshing to see some moments of love. On the occasion of Father’s Day, a heartwarming story emerged from the family of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. The Los Angeles Lakers legend’s kids might consider themselves lucky to have multiple inspirational figures in their lives. Despite the end of their marriage, Shaq and his ex-wife Shaunie have maintained a cordial relationship and co-parent their children together. Moreover, Shaunie’s husband, Pastor Keion Henderson, has become an “inspiring” figure for O’Neal’s children, especially Me’arah.

Shaq himself was brought up by his step-father along with his mother. Although the Big Aristotle had to follow a very strict routine, he has always been thankful for his step-father, Sgt. Phillip Harrison. That trend has now followed with Shaq’s kids as well.

Me’arah shares a wholesome Father’s Day story with her mother and stepdad 

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On Father’s Day, Me’arah O’Neal took to Instagram to show love to her step-father, Keion Henderson. She shared a photo of him along with her mother, Shaunie, herself, and Amirah and wrote, “Happy Father’s day to my bestie Kern thank you for being the most inspiring human being I know, love you so much.”

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Keion’s presence in Me’arah’s life has been a positive one, and her heartfelt message is a clear indication of the respect and love she holds for him. Amirah also wished Keion on the special occasion as she wrote, “happy father’s day to my bonus dad! I love you very much.” In Me’arah’s case, Keion has become an inspiring figure, a “bestie,” and a father figure who she deeply admires.

Read More: Who Is Shaquille O’Neal’s Ex-Wife? What Was the Reason Behind Their Divorce?

Meanwhile, Pastor Henderson spent his Father’s Day spreading love in his church. He was joined by his wife, Shaunie, as he shared the post on Instagram. The caption read, “Don’t lose your voice! As a Man, you can be many things, but the last thing you should be is Silent.”

 

The relationship between step-parents and step-children can be complex and challenging. However, it seems the pastor’s entry into the family has been embraced, and he has evidently formed a strong bond with Shaquille O’Neal’s youngest daughter. 

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A Look into Shaq and Shaunie’s Relationship and co-parenting dynamic

The couple was married from 2002 to 2011 and have four children together: Shareef, Amirah, Shaqir, and Me’arah. After the divorce, Shaunie O’Neal moved on and married her current husband, Keion. Shaq has often expressed regret over the mistakes he made in his marriage. Despite the divorce, however, the two are still friends.

Their relationship has evolved from a tumultuous marriage to a cordial co-parenting relationship. While there may have been regrets and mistakes made along the way, they have both moved on and found happiness in their own ways.

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Shaquille O’Neal has not commented on his daughter’s story yet, but it is clear that he has a good relationship with Keion and supports his children’s relationship with their stepfather. 

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